"The quality and depth of the playing squad along with the direction of Matt O'Connor made re-signing an easy decision to make."

A Tigers academy graduate, Cole made his senior debut for his hometown club in October 2007 and has made 185 appearances in the front row. Cole was born in the county and went to the Robert Smyth School, in Market Harborough.

He has also played in 75 Tests for England and been on two tours with the British & Irish Lions.

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Tigers head coach O’Connor added: “Coley is an outstanding player and a great example of a player who has come through the ranks at the club, earning his place in the senior squad and progressing to become first choice for club and country.

“He is among a core of senior professionals who have come through together here and are now in key leadership roles within the squad.

“He has played a lot of rugby at the very top end of the game with club and country, and his consistency over a long period of time is what makes him such an important player.”